Sunday, January 2, 2011

Bill of Sale 1809

Slaves were considered property in Kentucky prior to the Civil War and, as property, they were subject to sale by their owners. The document relating this conveyance was called a bill of sale and, if recorded, can usually be found in deed books in Kentucky. The bill of sale for a Negro woman and her child was recorded in Caldwell County Deed Book A, page 72.

"Know all men by these presents that I James Thompson of Caldwell County and State of Kentucky have for the consideration of five Hundred Dollars paid in hand have Bargained and Sold unto David Doom and John Doom Both of the county and State Afour Sad one Negrow woman and Child Named Hannah whitch Negrow woman I warrent and Defend from all claimes or Claiments or any ... Impedament - Given under my hand this 15th of June 1809. Jas. Thompson. Witness: Hugh S. Cochran.

"... Proven to be the act and deed of the said James Thompson by the oath of Hugh S. Cochran a subscribing witness thereto, and ordered to be recorded and that true copy stands of Record in my office. Given under my hand this 13th day of January 1810. John H. Phelps."